When it comes to eating healthy and working out, the majority of us have it all wrong. It’s true. Most women out there believe that eating less, and not snacking, is the way to go when it comes to losing weight.

Wrong. If you’re hungry, by all means, have a snack in between your meals. What most women don’t know is that there are specific foods that you should not be snacking on, and those that you should be embracing.

For example, pears are high in fiber, along with pistachios. These snacks will help slow down your digestion and make you feel fuller longer with minimum calorie absorption.

Another pre-workout snack (if you’re feeling fancy) is making yourself a quick sandwich of whole-wheat pitas, peanut butter, and a banana. The peanut butter gives you’re a healthy balance of protein, while the banana and pita give you a good dose of carbs. This sandwich will give you a shot of energy, and is therefore ideal for your pre-workout snack.

Another low-calorie, high protein snack to have before your workout are apples. Just one apple can give you as much dietary fiber as a serving of bran cereal. Not too bad right? Also, try snacking on a hard-boiled egg. Eggs give you filling servings of protein and contain B vitamins, which help convert the food you eat into energy.

What if you’re not necessarily hungry, but thirsty? Have some coffee. Studies have shown that a little caffeine before a workout can give you an energy boost. Also, try some chocolate milk. Surprising, I know, but chocolate milk (low-fat of course) has the right mix of carbs, potassium and protein.

Ally | Elite.